Is your air conditioner blowing hot air? This common problem can occur because of a variety of issues, many of them common and easily repaired.
If you’re stuck scratching your head about an AC system blowing hot air instead of cool air, consider the following before calling an expert:
Is the Air Filter Clogged?
A dirty or clogged air filter is a good way to invite a variety of problems with your AC unit. The air conditioner requires a constant stream of fresh air.
So if the flow of air is impeded by dust and debris clogging the filter, you may notice reduced efficiency.
A clogged air filter will also cause the AC unit to struggle to work at the same level of efficiency, which can lead to blowing the AC breaker.
If you are noticing the AC breaker is always tripping, check the air filter or the cleanliness of the unit itself.
This simple problem could cause the unit to use more electricity and trip the breaker.
If you check the breaker and its in the off position, just flip it back to the on position and the problem should be solved.
But a constantly tripping AC breaker is an issue you want a professional to inspect.
In addition to the air filter issue, tripping the breaker could also be a sign that the AC is simply overloading the breaker panel or is not compatible with the panel itself.
Are You Running Low on Refrigerant?
Refrigerant is the fluid inside the AC that cools and condenses the air. All air conditioning systems have a specific amount of refrigerant required to work efficiently.
When the refrigerant is low, you may experience hot air blowing from the registers.
It’s important to remember to not simply add more refrigerant when the levels are low. Low refrigerant points to a leak, which is an issue that is best handled by a professional HVAC expert.
Some of the most common causes of refrigerant leaks include:
- Manufacturer’s defects.
- Accidents from past services.
- Incorrect installations.
Regardless of the problem at hand, a professional can quickly spot the source of the leak, offer a quick repair, and add more refrigerant if needed.
Has the Unit Become Contaminated?
The air filter also serves to protect the interior AC components from dust and debris. Many components will freeze if pollutants like these contaminate 
them.
The most common component susceptible to freezing is the evaporator coil.
The coil works by pumping refrigerant through itself, cooling and condensing the returning air from the system.
If it gets dirty, it will freeze, putting a strain on the entire system.
Some signs that you are dealing with a frozen evaporator coil include:
- Hot air blowing from the registers.
- Increased humidity in the home.
- A noisy condenser unit.
Depending on the severity of the problem, we may recommend a course of action that includes cleaning, repair, or a full evaporator coil replacement.
